I Am Not Skilled To Understand

“I Am Not Skilled to Understand” is a deeply personal and humble hymn written by the English poet and Christian writer Dora Greenwell. Born in Durham, England, in 1821, Dora grew up in a devout family and was known for her literary and spiritual depth. Much of her life was marked by physical frailty, yet she devoted her years to writing poetry and prose that explored themes of redemption, faith, and Christian devotion. This hymn, first published in 1873, captures her simple yet profound confession of trust in Jesus Christ. Rather than offering intellectual arguments or theological explanations, Dora’s words express a heartfelt faith that rests on God’s promises rather than human understanding.

The hymn begins with an admission of limitation, “I am not skilled to understand what God hath willed, what God hath planned,” acknowledging that the Christian life is built on trust in God’s wisdom, not human reasoning. This humility sets the tone for the hymn’s central theme: faith in Christ as Savior, Redeemer, and Lord. Greenwell points believers to the reality of Christ’s death and resurrection as the ultimate assurance of salvation. Her focus on simple faith over intellectual mastery reflects scriptural truth, echoing verses like Proverbs 3:5, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.” In this way, her hymn has become a source of comfort for those who may struggle with doubt or feel unworthy, reminding them that salvation is secured not by their ability but by God’s grace.

The hymn’s popularity grew significantly when American gospel musician William J. Kirkpatrick set it to music in the late 19th century. It became a staple in hymnals and continues to be sung in churches around the world. Its timeless message resonates across generations, emphasizing that believers need not fully comprehend all of God’s plans to trust Him fully. Modern audiences have also embraced the hymn through contemporary settings, such as Aaron Shust’s adaptation “My Savior, My God,” which draws heavily from Greenwell’s original text while presenting it in a modern worship style. Whether sung traditionally or in a contemporary arrangement, “I Am Not Skilled to Understand” remains a beloved hymn of simple, steadfast faith, encouraging believers to rest in the truth of Christ’s redemptive work and God’s unchanging love.